NIST researchers have conducted experiments that challenge the fundamental understanding of electromagnetism as described by quantum electrodynamics (QED). Using their Electron Beam Ion Trap, they observed that electrons in highly charged ions behave differently than predicted by QED theory. When electrons are stripped from heavy atoms like titanium or iron, creating a helium-like ion, the emitted photons have different colors than QED predicts.
The NIST team found that the excited electrons emit photons of a noticeably different color than QED calculations suggest. While the results are preliminary and require further confirmation, they suggest that some physics outside of QED may be necessary to explain the behavior of highly charged ions. The research team’s findings were published in the Physical Review Letters in October 2012, and they are preparing to release results of additional measurements that support their initial findings.
Keywords: Electromagnetism, Quantum Electrodynamics, Photons, Electrons, Highly Charged Ions
